Trim problem

anthony10092

Cadet
Joined
May 18, 2009
Messages
7
I have an alpha one outdrive, and this weekend was the first time I used the boat since last year. Everything was working great for about the first 30 mins of use, then had a trim problem. The needle on the trim gauge, on the dash, bounces all over the place so you dont know where the trim is, and the up trim doesnt work but the trailer button lifts the motor up. could it be a bad switch, and why would the needle bounce all over teh place? I am new to boating and not sure where to start with this problem.

Thanks in advance for help.
 

danond

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jun 11, 2007
Messages
1,118
Re: Trim problem

Sounds like two problems. The trim sender isn't attached to the switch, so don't worry about it until you get the switch issue fixed.

Do you know how to use an ohm meter? If so, test the switch at the handle.

The trim sender is attached to the gimbal ring or the pivot housing (I can't remember which) and has an arm that changes position when the pivot housing moves up or down. It's just a resistor, so if it's bad, it'll bounce around or not work at all. It's not a serviceable piece, so if it's bad, you get a new one.
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,088
Re: Trim problem

Ayuh,...

My guess is the wires for Both the trim limit switch,+ the trim gauge sender are Trashed...
They're both mounted to the gimbel ring,+ are Known to fail...
 

jakebrake

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Sep 22, 2008
Messages
286
Re: Trim problem

i agree with bondo. water in wires or a loose ground, but the switches are due for replacement (in my newbie's opinion)
 
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